Invented in 1972, the self-regulating heat tracing cable was the first cable to maintain constant pipe temperature under harsh conditions. Today, self-regulating heat tracing cables are used in many industries and applications including oil and gas, pipe freeze protection, and snow and ice melting.
With its RAYCHEM self-regulating heat tracing cable, nVent Electric obtained the prestigious Milestone designation from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
IEEE Milestone Program
IEEE established the Milestones Program in 1983 to honor significant achievements in the history of electrical and electronics engineering. To be eligible to receive IEEE Milestone distinction, the accomplishment must be at least 25 years old, have benefited humanity, and must have a minimum of regional importance. This dedication held historic significance for the IEEE Milestones Program because it was the 200th induction since the program began.
The heat tracing division of the Raychem Corporation (now a part of nVent) began to produce the first commercially successful electric self-regulating heat tracing cable in 1972. By 2008, the Raychem Corporation had manufactured and sold one billion feet of self-regulating heat tracing cable.
“Having our technology added into IEEE’s historic Milestones Program is a tremendous accomplishment, and we are proud to be acknowledged globally as the first manufacturer of the self-regulating heat tracing cable,” said Brad Faulconer, President of nVent Thermal Management. “We have always stood behind the quality and performance of our products; and having our cables be celebrated by the world’s largest professional organization dedicated to the advancement of technology is a great honor. This recognition also provides additional reassurance to our customers. Heat tracing technology is not just something we do; it’s a part of our DNA.”
nVent heat tracing cable
nVent RAYCHEM heat tracing cables, systems, controllers, and components have been used worldwide since 1957.
nVent RAYCHEM brand self-regulating heating cables consist of two parallel conductors embedded in a heating core made of conductive polymer. The core is radiation-crosslinked to ensure long-term reliability.
How Self-Regulating Heating Cables Work
Heat is generated as electric current passes through the conductive polymer core between the cable’s conductors. As the ambient temperature drops, the number of electrical paths through the core increases and more heat is produced. Conversely, as the temperature rises, the core has fewer electrical paths and less heat is produced.
RAYCHEM's self-regulating heating cable technology is available in a range of products suitable for use in the home, in construction for larger buildings, and for industrial-based applications.
